Planning commission recommends Ordinance 912 to allow rural accessory dwelling units

The Washington County Planning Commission voted unanimously on Jan. 7, 2025, to recommend approval of Ordinance 912, which would amend the countycomprehensive plan and community development code to allow rural accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in the county's rural residential districts.

Senior planner Todd Borkowitz, presenting the staff report, said the ordinance would "allow accessory dwelling units or rural ADUs in the rural residential areas of the county." He told commissioners the change implements state allowances while retaining county authority to add safeguards.

Why it matters: The state now enables counties to allow two rural ADU types: a new rural ADU accessory to an existing single detached dwelling and a rural historic ADU converting an existing historic home when a new primary dwelling is built. Those state rules limit eligible lots (for example, lots must be at least 2 acres, cannot be inside urban reserves, and are screened out where groundwater use is…